Business as usual for SSPCA centre staff

The Scottish SPCA’s Aberdeenshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre had 69 animals in its care this Christmas Day.

It was business as usual for dedicated staff at the Drumoak-based centre, which is open to the public all year round.

Centre manager Graeme Innes said: “It’s a sad reality that there are lots of animals without loving homes to call their own this Christmas time. Thanks to our staff, no animal here spent Christmas Day alone and they all got a wee treat from Santa too. It’s simply not an option for us to close over the holidays as the animals here rely on us and they don’t have anywhere else to go.

“We’ll be here for all the animals ensuring they’re fed, watered and exercised every day as usual. There is also the task of washing down the kennels, cleaning out the catteries and other enclosures and ensuring animals receive any necessary vet treatment. We’ll also continue to take in abandoned, neglected, injured and unwanted animals who have been rescued by our inspectors and animal rescue officers.

“Although we aren’t rehoming young animals between 20 December and 3 January to prevent them being taken on by someone who wants a new pet for Christmas and hasn’t fully thought through their decision, they can be reserved and there are lots of other pets in our care ready to find their forever homes right now. People are very welcome to pop in to the centre if they think they could offer one of our animals a second chance at happiness.”